Title

Author

Date of Award

2010

Degree Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

School

School of Communication and Arts

Faculty

Education and Arts

First Advisor

Christopher Crouch

Abstract

This thesis examines the realist art movement from its origins in France in the 1840s to its development in China in the 20th century and its impact on the author as an artist. The thesis reviews the development of realism in France, and traces its impact on Chinese conceptions of realism in the 20th century. The contemporary debates surrounding realism in China are examined and contextualised within the recent history of realism in China. Finally the thesis looks at the impact of realism on the author’s creative practice and a case is argued for the development of realist ideas in a globalised culture and its value as a cross- cultural visual language.